Mercedes Non-Executive Chairman Niki Lauda has called on Formula 1 to reverse its decision to ban grid girls, saying its a tradition that belongs in the sport.
Formula 1 bosses decided this week that the tradition no longer fits with the new branding and direction the sport is heading following Liberty Media's recent takeover.
Lauda has joined former owner Bernie Ecclestone in condemning the move, calling it a "decision against women", in an interview with Der Standard.
"I think it's a great pity that this tradition has been broken, they are not doing Formula 1 and especially women a favour.
"If you continue on this path, there will soon be no cheerleaders in America."
Lauda suggested adding 'grid boys' would solve the argument that purely using women for their appearance is a dated tradition.
"I hope there is a way to reverse the decision. I would not mind seeing grid boys next to the girls, why not?"
"Grid girls have always belonged in Formula 1, they should continue to belong in Formula 1."
The three-time champion also refuted claims that the use of grid girls is putting women off joining the sport in other roles such as engineering.
"Grid girls don't stop other women from taking up leadership positions [in the sport]," he added. "Women are stepping up and they are doing it very well – it is moving in the right direction. I do not want to reduce women in F1, but encourage them.
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